Pope Leo Decries Trump’s Threats to Iranian Civilization as ‘Intolerable’

Pope Leo has condemned Donald Trump’s recent threats against Iran, labeling them "intolerable" shortly after the U.S. president ominously declared that “a whole civilization will die tonight.”

In a rare public statement, Leo, known for his vocal opposition to the Iran conflict, urged individuals worldwide to reach out to their political representatives and demand an end to the escalating hostilities.

“Today, we witnessed a grave threat directed at the people of Iran. This is truly intolerable,” the pope stated on Tuesday. "Beyond the implications of international law, this is fundamentally a moral issue concerning the welfare of humanity.”

It is uncommon for the pope, who shepherds 1.4 billion Catholics globally, to directly address a world leader in such a manner.

The pope's remarks were in response to a controversial social media post by Trump that sent shockwaves through the international community, prompting discussions about invoking the 25th Amendment for his removal.

In his Truth Social post, Trump wrote, “A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don’t want that to happen, but it probably will.”

He continued, “However, now that we have Complete and Total Regime Change, where different, smarter, and less radicalized minds prevail, maybe something revolutionarily wonderful can happen, WHO KNOWS?”

“We will find out tonight; it’s one of the most significant moments in the long and complex history of the World. 47 years of extortion, corruption, and death will finally end. God Bless the Great People of Iran!”

Trump expressed on Monday that he was "not at all" worried about potential war crimes, having repeatedly threatened to target civilian infrastructure if Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

He has specifically threatened to obliterate Iran's bridges and power plants if Tehran fails to comply with his 8 PM EDT (1 AM BST) ultimatum.

At least 50 Democratic lawmakers are urging the Trump administration to consider invoking the 25th Amendment due to his escalating threats against Iran.

With Congress currently in recess and Vice President JD Vance abroad, immediate action appears unlikely.

Leo has been intensifying his critique of the U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran in recent weeks.

Speaking to reporters outside his residence in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, on Tuesday, Leo reiterated his call for global citizens to engage with their political leaders and advocate for peace.

"People desire peace," he emphasized. "I invite citizens from all involved nations to contact their authorities—political leaders and congressmen—to urge them to pursue peace.”

He also noted that many have described the conflict as an "unjust war," a term that resonates with the Catholic Church's staunch pro-life stance.

Leo urged everyone to "remember especially the innocent children, the elderly, and the sick—so many who have already suffered or will suffer as a result of this ongoing warfare.”

The pope further asserted that attacks on civilian infrastructure "violate international law."